Firms

Sure, these millennials look like they aren’t doing anything. But these are just stock photos. They aren’t real life.

In this column at CPA Practice Advisor, accounting firm consultant Marc Rosenberg writes about putting a bunch of partners into a room with a couple of millennial accountants and hilarity ensues when they all break out in song.

Ha, no that’s ridiculous. But you know what’s also ridiculous? People being surprised when a certain demographic of people don’t match up with their preconceived notions:

The panel dialog was enlightening and refreshing. In discussing the session after Kelsey and Jon left, the group felt that they didn’t “act like Millennials.” They have a strong work ethic. They are ambitious. Assertive. Self-confident. Articulate in front of older adults. They aspire for promotions. They are engaged in their firms and have a hunger for learning.

Work ethic? Ambition? Confidence? Having conversations with older people? Who knew that human beings between the ages of 23 and 35 were capable of such things?!

Look around. Millennials are everywhere. They’re just people. Yes, some of them are lazy, entitled, and glued to their phones. Interesting side note: This describes a lot of non-millennials too! But plenty of millennials are hardworking, intelligent, and nice! I know lots of them. Maybe these accounting firm partners are hanging out with the wrong millennials?

The most consistent thing I’ve noticed about these millennial discussions is the complete lack of self-awareness on the part of non-millennials. The possibility that their preconceptions are wrong never occurs to them. But it’s fine, it’s fine. Millennials are a forgiving bunch. Just fess up to your gross mischaracterization and we can move on from this stupid topic.